Description of Canine Epilepsy
Canine Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by sudden fits and attended by sudden loss of consciousness, and convulsive, uncoordinated, motions of the muscles. It is often referred to as the ``falling sickness,'' because of falling suddenly to the ground.

Symptoms of Canine Epilepsy
Canine Epilepsy usually occurs in dogs 6 months to 5 years of age, generally at 2-3 years. The actual triggering of a seizure is unknown but this usually tends to occur during periods of excitability. There are three phases to a seizure.

Pre-Seizure - your dog may seek its owner showing signs of restlessness, will pace and salivate

Seizure - this phase can generally last up to 5 minutes and the dog will appear excited, run round in circles, vomit, salivate, collapse, and have uncoordinated muscle motions. Involuntarily urination and defecation can occur.

Post-Seizure - this phase can last between 5 minutes to many hours, or in extreme cases even days - the dog will appear disoriented and uncoordinated. In extreme cases temporary blindness may occur.

Seizures by themselves are not life threatening unless they progress into Status where the seizure continues for several hours in which case medical attention should be sought immediately.

Dogs susceptible to Canine Epilepsy
Canine Epilepsy occurs in all breeds and can be due to a genetic trait. Studies have shown that the following breeds are most susceptible to canine epilepsy:

Canine Epilepsy Causes
There are many possible causes of Canine Epilepsy which include:

Treatment of Canine Epilepsy
The treatment of Canine Epilepsy is dependent on the pattern of the seizure. There is no cure but treatment decreases the frequency, severity and duration of the seizures.

About This Advice
We hope that this information about Canine Epilepsy has been of some assistance. But please remember that if you are in doubt about your Dog's Health you should consult your vet or other suitably qualified expert.

You can find details and contact information for any UK vet here

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